Public Health England urges caution on antibiotic use

Public Health England have launched a new campaign in the North West of England, highlighting the dangers of taking antibiotics when you don’t need them. A powerful film will show the possible consequences of failing to take action on antibiotic resistance – showing a world in which common infections, minor injuries and routine operations will become far riskier.

It is estimated that 5,000 deaths are caused every year in England because antibiotics no longer work for some infections.

Antibiotics are needed for serious bacterial infections but don’t work for everyday viral infections such as cold and flu. If you take antibiotics when you don’t need them, the dangerous bacteria inside you can become resistant to antibiotics. This means they are less likely to work for you when you really need them. You can also pass on antibiotic resistant bacteria to your loved ones.

For further information on antibiotic resistance search ‘NHS antibiotics’.